Plymouth MP Luke Pollard has been confirmed as a member of parliament's transport select committee.

Mr Pollard will join MPs from across the Conservative, Scottish National and Democratic Unionist Party as it begins its work next month.

The committee’s chair is Labour’s Lillian Greenwood MP.

Mr Pollard said: "I’m proud to have been appointed to the Transport Select Committee.

Luke Pollard celebrates his election win (Image: John Allen)

"Transport connectivity is a huge issue in the far south west. We need better road, rail, air and sea connections for Plymouth so we can grow our economy, create more jobs and help our region grow.

"We all know that investing in transport infrastructure and improving connectivity is vital if Britain is to grow and prosper.

"There are some substantial challenges ahead. Brexit is throwing up big challenges for our transport. Getting a deal on aviation so our planes have legal access to EU airspace when we leave the EU is vital.

"We need to look at how our railways work and ensure that transport reduces its carbon emissions.

Read More

Plymouth City Council facing questions

"Safety is a key priority for me especially in the maritime matters. I want our transport to be future proofed to keep pace with new technology. There’s lots of issues I’m keen to raise on the committee and I’m keen to get stuck in.

"My role on this committee is a great chance to fight for Plymouth. With projects like Heathrow, HS3 and Crossrail2 taking up so much of the debate, I’ll be there to make the case for regional investment for the far South West.

"I will be a strong voice for better rail, roads and air links for our region.

"Plymouth has been long neglected by Westminster. I have said I will work cross-party to put Plymouth first. The cross-party transport select committee is another opportunity for Plymouth’s voice to be heard loud and clear in Westminster.”

The committee is charged by the House of Commons with scrutiny of the Department for Transport. The committee chooses its own subjects of inquiry and examines the expenditure, administration and policy of the Department of Transport.